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Exercise Physiologist Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

We are currently seeking a full-time Exercise Specialist Supervisor to support the employees of a retail company's global headquarters located in Beaverton, OR . In this role you will manage and ...

Female Exercise Specialist We are seeking a passionate and motivated Female Exercise Specialist to join our dynamic team. As a Female Exercise Specialist at GYMGUYZ, you will provide personalized ...

Female Exercise Specialist We are seeking a passionate and motivated Female Exercise Specialist to join our dynamic team. As a Female Exercise Specialist at GYMGUYZ, you will provide personalized ...

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Exercise Physiologist information

See Portland, OR salary details

$13

$30

$50

How much do exercise physiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise physiologist in Portland, OR is $30.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.92 and $35.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do exercise physiologists do?

Exercise Physiologists are health professionals who assist their patients in improving their lifestyles and maintaining good health. They may work with patients who have heart disease, diabetes, or pulmonary disease to regain their strength and health. Sometimes they also work with amateur and professional athletes, providing training and tips to optimize their performance and prevent injury. Exercise Physiologists evaluate their patient’s health using stress tests and other examinations to assess cardiovascular function and metabolism. After reviewing the results, they design fitness plans to achieve their patient’s goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exercise physiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Physiologist, you need a solid background in exercise science, human physiology, and anatomy, usually supported by a relevant degree and professional certification such as ACSM-EP or CEP. Familiarity with exercise testing equipment, biometric tracking tools, and health assessment software is crucial for daily tasks. Strong interpersonal skills, motivational abilities, and clear communication help in building client trust and promoting healthy behavior change. These skills ensure accurate assessments, effective program development, and positive client outcomes in clinical and fitness settings.

What are some common challenges exercise physiologists face when working with diverse patient populations?

Exercise Physiologists often encounter challenges such as adapting exercise plans to accommodate patients with varying medical conditions, ages, and fitness levels. Communication is key, as explaining complex exercise concepts in a clear and motivating way can be difficult, especially when clients have different backgrounds or language barriers. Additionally, collaborating with multidisciplinary healthcare teams and staying updated on the latest research and protocols ensures individualized, evidence-based care. These challenges require flexibility, empathy, and strong interpersonal skills.

What is the difference between Exercise Physiologist vs Physical Therapist?

AspectExercise PhysiologistPhysical Therapist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Exercise Science, certification (e.g., ACSM)Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), state licensure
Work EnvironmentFitness centers, rehab clinics, hospitalsHospitals, outpatient clinics, rehab centers
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, sports, wellness industriesHealthcare, rehabilitation services

Exercise Physiologists focus on improving physical fitness and managing chronic diseases through exercise programs, often working in wellness and rehab settings. Physical Therapists diagnose and treat injuries, providing hands-on therapy and rehabilitation. While both roles promote health and recovery, their credentials, scope, and work environments differ significantly.

How much does an exercise physiologist make annually?

An exercise physiologist's average annual salary in the United States is around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certification, and work setting. Salaries can vary based on location, specialization, and whether they work in clinical, fitness, or research environments.

Is being an exercise physiologist a good career?

Exercise physiologists assess and develop exercise programs to improve health and manage chronic conditions. The profession offers opportunities in healthcare, rehabilitation, and fitness settings, often requiring certification and strong interpersonal skills. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in health promotion and patient care.

What can you do as an exercise physiologist?

An exercise physiologist designs and implements exercise programs to improve health, fitness, and recovery for patients with chronic diseases or injuries. They assess physical fitness, monitor progress, and may work in clinical, rehabilitation, or fitness settings, often requiring certification and knowledge of human physiology and exercise science.

What jobs can you do with exercise physiology?

Exercise physiologists can work in clinical settings, rehabilitation centers, sports teams, fitness facilities, and research institutions. They design and implement exercise programs to improve health, assist in injury recovery, and enhance athletic performance, often requiring certification and knowledge of human anatomy and physiology.

What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Physiologist jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Exercise Physiologist jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Exercise Physiologist jobs in Portland, OR?

For Exercise Physiologist jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Exercise Physiologist jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Exercise Physiologist jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Exercise Physiologist jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Exercise Physiologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Exercise Physiologist job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,543 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Part-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

171st of 631 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department Overview

The Exercise Specialist's purpose is to positively promote the Oregon Health & Science University, Department of Medicine, and Human Performance Lab (HPL) in a friendly and professional manner. Under the guidance of a physician at the HPL, people of all abilities can identify their body's strengths, weaknesses and physical potential.

This is a part time Exercise Specialist position working in the HPL directly with patients.  This clinically trained position will primarily participate in patient care duties including rooming & performing vital sign measurements, conducting patient EKG preparation, performing pulmonary function testing (PFT), cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET), body composition analysis and point of care collection such as urinalysis & blood draws.  The position assists in processing data & preparing written reports; works closely with physicians to provide direct patient care in the HPL.  The Exercise Specialist is a critical part of the HPL team and assists members, including research staff, with site regulatory compliance/safety, supplies ordering & coordination, as well as equipment use, training & maintenance. 

Function/Duties of Position
  • Testing and assessment.  Tests participant for fitness level, conditioning and/or injuries.  Takes and records vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, pulse rate, respiration rate and temperature.  Provides on-going monitoring and follow-up including data collection.
  • Includes: Conduct CPET, PFT, RMR, body comp, and other testing.  Performing medical assessments of vital signs, phlebotomy and urine specimen collection and analysis.  Assist with data base management of patient outcomes and writing summary data for fire and police organizations.
  • Design/prescribe/implement programs.  Creates, designs and implements facility-based and home fitness programs.  Develops exercise prescriptions and programs for participants.  Prescribes flexibility, cardiovascular and strength training exercises.  May provide group or individual exercise sessions, starting with fitness/goal assessment.
  • Instruct/Educate.  Provides fitness floor supervision and basic exercise instruction.  Evaluates, corrects form, and instructs participant on proper exercise techniques, form and gait training.  May provide patient education on home care, activities of daily living, pain management, mobility and rehabilitative exercises.  Assists in the planning, coordination, and promotions of programs/events.  Builds relationship with clients to encourage healthy lifestyles.
  • Miscellaneous.  Maintains a safe, clean environment (this includes Sentact surveys and other regulatory/compliance activities).  Monitors, orders and stocks exercise equipment and supplies.  Participate in continuous professional development in the field of exercise science.
Required Qualifications
  • A minimum of Bachelor degree in exercise science or related field health & wellness field; AND
  • One year of related experience including good communication skills for teaching; AND
  • May require Automatic External Defibrillator, First Aid and CPR certified; AND
  • Some positions may require additional certifications such as American College of Sports Medicine (ASCM), Athletic Trainer Certified (ATC) by the National Athletic trainer Association Board of Certification (NATABOC), CSCS Certified Strengthening & Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength & Condition Association; American College on Exercise (ACE), AFAA, and First Aid; OR
  • An equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
  • Positions within person patient care: BLS certificate within 30 days of hire or prior to independent practice, whichever comes first
Preferred Qualifications
  • Demonstrated excellent customer service skills both on the phone and in person.
  • Must possess energy and drive to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Ability to use tact and diplomacy to maintain effective working relationships.
  • Must have excellent communication, analytical and organizational skills:  both written and verbal.
  • Must be proficient with computers running Windows and PC applications e.g. MS Excel, Oracle, Access, Word and PowerPoint).
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team while being collaborative in resolving problems.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple tasks at one time
  • ACLS at start or within 6 months of hire
Additional Details
  • Weekly work schedule to complete weekly job assignments for a part-time position.  Onsite weekdays.  Schedule is 30 hours per week (3 10-hr days).  Will have potential exposure to human tissues/fluids.  
  • Ability to carry and lift up to 50 lbs, moving and carrying equipment and supplies. Must have reliable transportation.
Why apply to OHSU?We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.eduEmployment Type: PART_TIME

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About Oregon Health & Science University

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Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887